Rediscovering Personal Taste: A Journey Through Lost Causes
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Chapter 1: Embracing Lost Causes
Today, I want to delve into a seemingly lost cause: the quest to define our own preferences.
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Section 1.1: The Special Moments of Discovery
It may seem peculiar, especially to those (I would confidently assert the majority of readers) who have cultivated their interests over time, but I argue that many individuals in various artistic fields have yet to experience this. I’m referring to that unique instance when a previously unheard song captivates us; we immediately recognize its significance. We pause our activities to focus intently on it. This phenomenon is not limited to music—it can occur with any art form: a painting that suddenly captures our attention after wandering through a gallery, a breathtaking photograph, an awe-inspiring sculpture, an incredible building, or a remarkable film.
Section 1.2: The Nature of Connection
What makes a piece of art remarkable is not its inherent quality but rather the connection it establishes with us. This bond transforms it into something special for the viewer. The observer plays an essential role in this relationship. A masterful symphony may be overlooked by untrained ears, just as an exceptional pop song might not resonate with me. The more we expose ourselves to enriching art across various genres and forms, the more our tastes will evolve. Unfortunately, we often label someone as having good taste simply because their preferences align with ours. In reality, a discerning individual is one who has invested time and thought into experiencing art, continuously evolving their likes and dislikes.
Chapter 2: The Challenge of Conformity
In contrast, when we neglect to hone our preferences, we risk succumbing to popular trends. We may find ourselves liking what our friends enjoy as a means of fitting in. It requires less effort to check social media followings than to engage deeply with a piece of art. While this is a perfectly valid choice, it often is not a conscious one: developing our taste can be challenging without the influence of someone who has refined theirs. Additionally, solitude is crucial; introspective moments, like analyzing song lyrics while they play, often call for personal space. The constant exchange of opinions usually hinders the growth of one's individual character.
The first video titled "The Experiment Podcast: How a Civil War Expert Gave Up the 'Lost Cause' Myth" delves into the narratives that shape our understanding of history. It challenges us to reconsider the myths that have influenced our perceptions and the importance of seeking truth in our personal narratives.
The second video, "How the 'Lost Cause' Narrative Became American History," explores how a specific perspective on history has permeated cultural consciousness, influencing societal beliefs and attitudes. It prompts us to reflect on the narratives we accept and the significance of questioning prevailing stories.
Section 2.1: The Lost Cause of Personal Taste
Ultimately, I deem this pursuit a lost cause due to the overwhelming societal pressures. The momentum of conformity is formidable. This isn't inherently good or bad; it's merely a different reality. However, for those committed to cultivating their own tastes, the struggle is more pronounced. Yet, like every lost cause, the resistance is often vibrant, persistent, and filled with intriguing individuals we have yet to encounter.
Current mood of optimistic pessimism: 60%.
Listening to: "Anomic" by Marconi Union & Jay Wobble.
Thank you for taking the time to read this! Your encouragement is invaluable as I embark on this journey on Medium. Any claps and follows are deeply appreciated.
Who am I, you might wonder?
I am a musician who writes and a writer who makes music. You can explore my world here.